Definition of SSI and SSDI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) - Supplemental Security Income or SSI is a federal income supplement program for adults and children with disabilities, and adults 65+, who have limited income and resources. SSI is funded by general tax revenues (not SSA taxes) and provides a cash benefit that pays for basic living needs. For more information on SSI, go to www.ssa.gov/ssi.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) - Social Security Disability Insurance or SSDI is available to individuals who become disabled and are unable to do substantial work. SSDI benefits may be payable to certain family members as well. In order to qualify for SSDI, an individual must have paid Social Security taxes and earned enough work credits. For more information on SSDI, go to www.ssa.gov/pgm/disability.htm.

The contents of this WIPA publication are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not represent the official views of the Social Security Administration (SSA). SSA has reviewed the publication for technical accuracy; however, it should not be considered an SSA official document. The WIPA program is 95% federally funded by SSA under cooperative agreement 1WIP13050350-01-00.